Chief of Police

Final date to receive applications:
August 28, 2026

The Chief of Police is responsible for ensuring appropriate law enforcement services are provided at SEA, the Seaport, and other Port of Seattle properties, under the direction of the Port of Seattle’s Deputy Executive Director. This “at-will” role works with Port Executives and Business Unit leaders to develop, fund, and execute strategies and service levels to facilitate continuity of operations and enhance public safety.

The Chief collaborates with internal and external stakeholders and state and federal partners to ensure the highest level of security on Port facilities. This role is responsible for all functions and activities of the Police Department.

• Lead a police agency that provides world class law enforcement services and that protects and ensures safe passage through the Port of Seattle jurisdiction.
• Performs all duties as the chief law enforcement officer of the Port of Seattle to ensure appropriate enforcement of laws and public peace and order.
• Maintains a shared vision for the Police Department and inspires others to work towards it. Communicates strategic vision and demonstrates commitment to it. Inspires others and the department to the highest levels of achievement.
• Establishes strategic plans, goals, objectives, and department policies. Directs all Police Department activities including personnel management, budget, resource allocation, and operational decisions to ensure goal attainment.
• Works effectively with Executive and Elected Commissioners on achieving Port’s goals and objectives.
• Demonstrates effective communication skills by establishing and maintaining effective channels of communication and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, state and federal law enforcement, and regulatory entities to ensure security, public safety, and continuity of operations on Port properties.
• Represents both in public and private life, the Port of Seattle and its Police Department with community members, business partners, internal customers, and other stakeholders in a manner that instills trust and legitimacy.
• May act as and perform job duties of direct and indirect reports on an as needed basis.
• Applies equity and exemplifies shared values, behaviors, and practices in all aspects of the work. At the Port of Seattle, equity is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all Port employees.

• Eight (8) years of experience as a law enforcement senior leader, deputy chief, commander, or performing similar functions in a police department/agency, including responsibility for police department operational activities, such as strategic planning, policies, programs, budgeting, forecasting, and/or compliance or risk mitigation.
• Six (6) years of experience supervising police department and/or agency staff which must include supervision of other supervisors.

• Required Washington State Certified Peace Officer or ability to acquire certification within 6 months of employment
• National Incident Management System 300 and 400 required within 6 months of employment.
• Required valid Washington State Driver’s License.
• Must meet RCW 35.21.333 eligibility requirements.

• The successful candidate must pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check as well as a criminal history background check with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Employment will be contingent upon obtaining a Port of Seattle  upon clearance. A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) Customs Seal must be obtained within 30 days of hire.
• A comprehensive background investigation, including a polygraph, is required per RCW 35.21.333.

• Work Schedule – Your normal work schedule will be Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (40 hours per week). You may be required to work any and all assigned shifts, including weekends and holidays. You may be required to work during emergencies.
• Work Environment – You will primarily work in an office environment.
• Washington State Residency Requirement – Employees must establish a residence in Washington state within 30…